Rebels sign Reds back Harris on a two year deal

The Melbourne Rebels have announced that they have signed Reds utility back
Mike Harris on a two year Super Rugby deal.

The Rebels have been looking to add depth to their squad and had tried to sign
Waratahs flyhalf Bernard Foley as well as Canberra duo Matt Toomua and Christian
Lealiifano who both grew up in Melbourne.

The Rebels have also been linked with Wales international James Hook but despite
the signing of Harris they will continue to look for another international five-eighth
to further bolster the ranks.

Harris, who has 10 Wallaby caps, is in his fourth season of Super Rugby and
will join the Rebels at the conclusion of the 2014 Super Rugby season.

Harris can play flyhalf, in the midfield or at fullback, and is known for possessing
one of the deadliest kicking boots in Australian Rugby, both off the tee and
also out of hand.

He was a member of the Reds' 2011 Super Rugby winning squad, alongside Rebels
captain Scott Higginbotham, and his signing comes after a dedicated push by
the Club to secure a quality international inside back.

"We've been looking for more experience and leadership amongst our young
backline, and Mike certainly brings that to the table.

"As we continue to build a first class Rugby program here in Melbourne,
it is terrific to secure the signing of an international player who has tasted
a great deal of success, both for the Wallabies and also with the Reds where
he won the 2011 Super Rugby title."

The experience of the 25 year old will be pivotal in helping to guide a young
Rebels backline which continues to grow under the guidance of Tony McGahan and
Sean Hedger.